Australia’s Macquarie Innovation set world speed sailing history when it powered down the 500m Sandy Point course at an average speed of 50.43 knots. In winds of only 24 knots, Macquarie Innovation reached a maximum speed of 54.23 knots (100km/hr) and became the first sailing boat in the world to complete an official 500m run in excess of 50 knots.
The record claim by the Macquarie Speed Sailing Team is now being prepared for ratification by the sport’s governing body and while the final acknowledged speed is expected to be reduced to 50.08 knotsdue to tidal variances experienced along the course, the claim realizes the team’s long term goal to sail their craft beyond 50 knots